Behavioral Health Technician Full Time and Per Diem

Position Overview: The Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) performs a vital, front-line function in the facility, serving as the eyes and ears of the treatment team. The BHT is the liaison between patient and clinical/medical staff whose priority is to assist in providing a safe and caring environment for individuals in recovery. The primary responsibility of the BHT is to help ensure patient safety by performing regular patient rounds, make and record observations, and timely report any concerns to a member of the nursing staff and management. Patients need care 24 hours a day, scheduled work hours may include nights, weekends and holidays. BHTs work under the shift supervision of the nursing staff.

• Monitor patient activity, location, and safety at all times.

• Conduct educational, recreational and therapeutic activities/groups.

• Observe and interact with patients in all areas of the facility.

• Circulate throughout the treatment center to ensure that the facility is secure and safe throughout each shift.

• Observe patients to detect behavior patterns and report observations to medical staff.

Specific Responsibilities:

• Complete rounds on time and check for life signs by laying eyes on each patient for every round completed.

• Environmental Rounds, checking all rooms, including those locked, making sure all empty office doors always remain locked, patient restrooms for unusual or suspicious activity.

• Ensure that all unoccupied patient beds are made and ready for a potential admission.

• Oversee patients on assigned units: ensure patients follow daily schedules, escort patients to groups, meals, smoke breaks, activities, etc.

• Facilitate groups as assigned and complete all required documentation by the end of each shift.

• Transport patients to and from appointments and meetings, when necessary.

• Attend clinical and administrative meetings to integrate interdepartmental sharing of information.

• Demonstrate adaptability and flexibility to changes in the work environment.

• Follow Infection Control Guidelines at all times.

• Complete Incident Reports and report any other safety/risk issues immediately to the Program Director.

• Providing a safe, therapeutic environment for staff and patients.

• Willing to be trained and perform vital sign assessment for patients.

• Document attendance for all groups

• Apply de-escalation techniques to help manage patient’s emotions, behavior and participation in treatment. Seek assistance when necessary.

• Establish healthy relationships with patients and staff, displaying professional, cooperative demeanor.

• Maintain professional staff/patient boundaries and confidentiality (HIPAA laws).

• Assist in the admission process: search and record inventory log of patient’s personal belongings and valuables and properly store, orient new patients to the program.

• Maintain constant and clear communication between departments

• Complete accurate shift reports, notes, and safety checks each shift.

• Keep all properties and office spaces clean and neat, helping clients learn to care for themselves and the space around them.

• Make patient coffee, collect and clean mugs and restock supplies as needed.

• Restock all patient snacks and drinks as needed.

• Assist with training new hire BHT as needed.

• Work closely with the charge nurse and complete duties as assigned.

• Other duties as assigned.